Episodes

  • Legal Insights in Cannabis & Hospitality with Melissa Greenberg, Senior Associate at Helbraun & Levey
    Aug 6 2024

    Tune into the Roots to Risk Podcast with hosts Eric Schneider and Isaac Bock as they explore the dynamic world of cannabis. In this compelling episode, they sit down with Melissa Greenberg, a Senior Associate at Helbraun & Levey, who brings a wealth of knowledge from her experience in employment practices, litigation, and cannabis law.

    Melissa offers a unique perspective on the intersection of hospitality and cannabis, shedding light on the crucial legal and employment challenges faced by businesses in these industries. Discover the importance of setting up robust employment practices from the outset, and learn how proactive legal strategies can safeguard your cannabis business.

    With over a decade of litigation experience and a passion for helping businesses succeed, Melissa shares actionable advice on:

    • The similarities and differences between hospitality and cannabis employment practices.
    • Key legal standards and regulations for cannabis businesses.
    • The significance of early implementation of employment policies to mitigate risks.
    • Practical tips for onboarding, compliance, and maintaining a positive workplace culture.
    • How to leverage legal expertise and consulting resources to navigate the evolving legal landscape.

    Don't miss this insightful episode packed with expert advice to help your cannabis business thrive while protecting its most valuable asset—its employees. Whether you're a startup or an established company, Melissa's guidance will equip you with the knowledge to build a solid foundation for success.


    Show more Show less
    25 mins
  • Episode #46 - Pioneering Cannabis Bioharmaceuticals with Cannovation Clinical Research Partners, LLC. Lisa Rich Milan and Michael Zaccaria
    Aug 2 2024

    In this insightful episode of Roots to Risk, hosts Eric Schneider and Isaac Bock welcome back Lisa Rich Milan, alongside her co-founder Michael Zaccaria, to delve into their groundbreaking new venture, Cannovation Clinical Research Partners, LLC.

    Shifting from the traditional CPG discussions, this episode explores the innovative biotech and pharmaceutical approaches to cannabis. Lisa and Michael share their vision of expediting drug discovery and bringing cannabis-related medical products to market, shedding light on regulatory challenges, the impact of rescheduling cannabis to a Schedule III substance, and the promising future of cannabis in the pharmaceutical landscape.

    Tune in to learn about the intersection of cannabis, biotech, and the potential for significant advancements in medical treatments.

    Show more Show less
    39 mins
  • Episode #47 - From Apache Pilot to Cannabis Pioneer with Socrates Rosenfeld of Jane Technologies
    Jul 29 2024

    In this compelling episode of Roots to Risk, hosts Eric Schneider and Isaac Bock dive deep into the journey of Socrates Rosenfeld, co-founder and CEO of Jane Technologies.

    From his beginnings as a US Army Apache helicopter pilot to becoming a trailblazer in the cannabis tech industry, Socrates shares his personal and professional evolution. Discover how Jane Technologies revolutionized cannabis e-commerce, creating an ecosystem that benefits consumers, retailers, and brands alike.

    Socrates discusses the challenges and triumphs of building a successful platform, the impact of potential rescheduling of cannabis, and the importance of community and authenticity in business. Join us for an inspiring conversation about innovation, resilience, and the future of cannabis technology.

    Show more Show less
    44 mins
  • Navigating Cannabis Marketing Challenges with Samuel Fisher the Co-Founder of Green Dispensary Marketing
    Jun 13 2024

    In this episode of Roots to Risk, hosts Eric Schneider and Isaac Bock dive into the intricacies of cannabis marketing with Samuel Fisher from Green Dispensary Marketing.

    Samuel shares his journey from the education sector to becoming a key player in the cannabis SEO space, offering insights on overcoming industry-specific marketing restrictions. They discuss effective strategies for organic search optimization, pitfalls to avoid, and the importance of branding in saturated markets.

    Whether you're an established dispensary or new to the industry, this episode provides valuable guidance on enhancing your marketing efforts and driving customer engagement. Tune in for an informative conversation tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities within the cannabis community.


    Show more Show less
    25 mins
  • Episode #44: Exploring the World of Minor Cannabinoids Beyond THC and CBD With Dr. Shane Johnson from Bay Medica
    May 30 2024

    Dive into the fascinating world of minor cannabinoids with the Roots to Risk Podcast. Hosts Eric Schneider and Isaac Bock are joined by Dr. Shane Johnson from Bay Medica, a leading figure in the cannabis and cannabinoid space. Dr. Johnson shares insights into the biotech side of the industry, focusing on the development of rare cannabinoids and their potential applications in healthcare and consumer products.

    Learn about the groundbreaking work being done at Bay Medica, where a team of experts is using a biotechnology approach to produce pure, plant-identical cannabinoids. Discover the unique effects of cannabinoids like THCV, CBC, and CBT, and how small structural differences can lead to significant variations in their effects.

    Explore the future of cannabinoid-based medicine, from FDA-approved drugs to potential treatments for neurodegenerative disorders and cancer. Dr. Johnson discusses the importance of consumer education, quality control, and regulatory reform in advancing the industry and ensuring safe, effective products for all.

    Tune in to the Roots to Risk Podcast for an enlightening conversation on the science, business, and potential of minor cannabinoids in the cannabis industry.

    Show more Show less
    28 mins
  • Episode 43 - Insights from Willie McKenzie of Left Coast Holdings on Building Community and Success in Cannabis
    May 29 2024

    In this episode of Roots to Risk, hosts Eric Schneider and Isaac Bock sit down with Willie McKenzie, a family man, and the CEO and Co-founder of Left Coast Holdings, a vertically integrated cannabis business based in Michigan.

    Willie is also the founder of the Elite Cannabis Operators Mastermind Community, a vibrant network of cannabis entrepreneurs supporting both plant-touching and ancillary businesses in building profitable enterprises.

    Willie shares his journey from starting as a legacy operator in California in 2006 to establishing a significant presence in the regulated market. He discusses the challenges and triumphs of transitioning between markets, the importance of community among operators, and the strategies for maintaining a lean and profitable business.

    Willie also offers insights into the current state of the cannabis industry, the impact of potential regulatory changes, and the need for better enforcement at the state level. Tune in for an authentic and informative conversation about the evolving landscape of cannabis entrepreneurship.

    Show more Show less
    36 mins
  • Episode #42 Leading Innovations in Cannabis Vaporizer Technology with Michael Brosgart is the President of ACTIVE™
    May 17 2024

    In this episode of Roots to Risk, hosts Eric Schneider and Isaac Bock sit down with Michael Brosgart, President of Active, formerly Advanced Vapor Devices (AVD).

    Michael shares insights into the company's evolution, their focus on operational efficiency and strategic growth, and the cutting-edge innovations in cannabis vaporizer technology.

    Learn how Active is setting industry standards with their commitment to quality, reliability, and customer experience.

    Whether you're a seasoned cannabis professional or new to the industry, this episode offers valuable perspectives on the future of cannabis vaporization.


    Show more Show less
    39 mins
  • Navigating the Green Wave, Mastering Cannabis Licensing and Market Dynamics With Dalton Valette, the Senior Project Manager at Canna Advisors
    May 2 2024

    Join industry insiders Eric Schneider and Isaac Bock on Navigating the Green Wave, your essential podcast for expert insights into the cannabis industry's most pressing challenges and lucrative opportunities.

    This session features Dalton Valette from Canna Advisors, a leader in cannabis consulting, who unpacks the complexities of licensing, business planning, and compliance in the cannabis sector.

    Each episode is a deep dive into the dynamics of cannabis entrepreneurship, from groundbreaking regulatory changes to innovative business strategies.

    Whether you're pioneering a startup or steering an established company, our discussions are tailored to help you understand the nuances of the market, enhance your operational tactics, and drive your business forward.

    Show more Show less
    35 mins